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StarTech University offers computer enthusiasts and IT professionals a chance to learn more about new technologies and innovations in the IT world. Take some time to review the material, then pass the exam to earn your printable certificate for each course.

Course 2: SCSI School

Chapter 1: What is SCSI?

Pronounced "scuzzy", this acronym stands for "Small Computer System Interface" — a standard parallel interface used to transfer data between devices on both internal and external computer buses.

Standardized by the American National Standards Institute in 1986, SCSI technology initially realized the majority of its success in Apple Macintosh and Sun Microsystem computers. For example, nearly all Macintosh computers, with the exception of the earliest Macs and more recent releases (iMac and post-iMac), included a SCSI port for attaching devices such as disk drives, CD-ROM drives, printers and scanners.

SCSI's credentials are not limited to Macintosh systems. Distinct performance advantages and enhanced flexibility in comparison to other Input/Output (I/O) technologies, have helped make SCSI the interface of choice for high-end PCs and server computers.

A typical SCSI configuration consists of the following items:

A SCSI host adapter (controller) that plugs directly into a computer motherboard

To ensure proper operation, careful selection of SCSI hardware is vital. The following information will help you to begin configuring your SCSI-enabled computer. For special requirements, please consult your SCSI device documentation.